There’s been a huge decline in colon, breast, and cervical cancer screenings during COVID-19.

But doctors urge you to keep your appointmenthere’s why.

But do the benefits outweigh the potential risks of going to the doctor right now during a pandemic?

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We asked two top OB/GYNs to find out.

Why are mammograms and pap smears important?

First, its helpful to know why these tests are important in the first place.

Collage graphic of the best shoes for standing all day according to nurses, with the top pick being FIGS New Balance 3447 Zip shoes in gray, black, and white against a pink and orange background

Deborah Lindner, MD is an OB/GYN and the chief medical officer at Bright Pink, a national non-profit organization dedicated to the education, support and early detection of ovarian and breast cancer awareness. She is a staff physician at Midwest Vein Center in Chicago where her clinical focus is treating varicose veins during and after pregnancy.

It truly depends on someones personal story and personal risk, she says.

Heres Exactly How It Can Affect Your Poop

She says this goes for mammograms as well.

(But again, thats something thats decided between a person and their doctor.)

close up of person drinking a green smoothie that may cause their poop to be green

She reiterates that there are ways tosafely see your OB/GYNfor these tests.

First, Dr. Lindner says you should come in when you are feeling healthy.

Put on your face mask and be prepared to wear it for your entire appointment.

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This includes in the waiting room and during your actual visit with your doctor.

Last, be sure to use hand sanitizer before and after your appointment.

Both doctors emphasize that thereareways to be tested safely during the pandemic.

cup of matcha green tea sitting on a wooden ledge

Deborah Lindner, MD is an OB/GYN and the chief medical officer at Bright Pink, a national non-profit organization dedicated to the education, support and early detection of ovarian and breast cancer awareness. She is a staff physician at Midwest Vein Center in Chicago where her clinical focus is treating varicose veins during and after pregnancy.

No one can predict when that will be, so you could end up waiting a long time.

And thats definitely not good for anyones health.

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